Peaking at 2200 meters above sea level, Lishan is the third highest mountain amongst the 12 that make up the Lishan Range. The tea garden from which this tea is harvested lies at approximately 2000 meters (6500 feet) above sea level, an elevation that yields temperate weather in the summer and light snow fall in the winter.

At this elevation, the tea plants are exposed to strong sunshine only in the morning before they are quickly enshrouded in mist. This short sun exposure allows the leaves to produce intense flavor compounds, but tempers the bitterness that can result from over-exposure. The cooler temperature also slows the plant's metabolism, enabling the leaves to retain and store more flavor compounds.

Winter tea harvesting on Lishan is a somewhat frantic activity, as legions of tea pickers rush to gather the season's leaves before the arrival of Winter frost. The first flush of these teas are the most exceptional, occurring in late October to early November at the highest elevation gardens and gradually moving down the mountain.

With soft and floral aromatics, this year's Lishan Winter coats the palate with distinct notes of baby corn and fresh cream, in a manner that perfectly balances nuance with intensity.

This is our go-to brewing method for Formosa oolongs, since it balances each element of this style’s character. For an even sweeter and richer taste, decrease you water temperature while extending brew time; for a brighter and more vegetal taste, increase your water temperature while slightly decreasing brew time.

Learn the fundamentals of tea brewing and master your technique .